A State Funeral Service to celebrate the life of The Honourable Brian James Dixon will be held at 10.30 am on Friday, 25 July 2025 at St Patrick's Cathedral, Melbourne.
Mr Dixon served as the Liberal Member for St Kilda in the Victorian Legislative Assembly from 1964 to 1982 and during this time held several key ministerial roles in the Hamer Government, including Minister for Youth, Sport and Recreation, Social Welfare, Housing, and Employment and Training.
As a passionate advocate for health, wellbeing, and the community, Mr Dixon led some of Victoria's most impactful reforms including launching the Life. Be in it. campaign in the 1970's, inspiring millions to embrace physical activity and healthier living, driving a memorable public health message - and a catchy jingle.
As Chair of the Road Safety Committee, he played a key role in making Victoria the first jurisdiction in the world to mandate seatbelt use, which was a life-saving measure that dramatically reduced road fatalities and became a global safety benchmark.
Alongside politics, Mr Dixon also had a distinguished sporting career, playing 252 games for the Melbourne Football Club and winning five premierships. Off the field, he remained a lifelong advocate for community sport both in Australia and internationally.
The State Funeral Service will be open to the public, and for those unable to attend, the Service will be live streamed.
At the request of the Dixon family and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to FightMND. To donate, visit fightmnd.org.au/donate.
Further details about how to attend or view the live stream will be shared in due course, with the most up to date information available at vic.gov.au/BrianDixon.
As stated by Acting Premier and Treasurer Jaclyn Symes
"Brian Dixon championed progressive social reforms with courage throughout his 18 years in Parliament."
"His contributions both in the chamber, and on the football field, will be remembered with gratitude having left a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing, safety, and welfare of all Victorians."
